“No, I thought, growing more rebellious, life has its own laws and it is for me to defend myself against whatever comes along, without going snivelling to God about sin, my own or other people's. How would it profit a man if he got into a tight place, to call he people who put him there miserable sinners? Or himself a miserable sinner? I disliked the levelling aspect of this sinnerdom, it was like a cricket match played in a drizzle, where everybody had an excuse - and what a dull excuse! - for playing badly. Life was meant to test a man, bring out his courage, initiative, resource; and I longed, I thought, to be tested: I didn't want to fall on my knees and call myself a miserable sinner. But the idea of goodness did attract me, for I did not regard it as the opposite of sin. I saw it as something bright and positive and sustaining, like the sunshine, something to be adored, but from afar.”
Quote by L.P. Hartley
Work
This novel, set in the early 20th century, follows the story of a young boy who becomes an unwitting messenger between two adults, leading to a series of events that profoundly impact his life. The narrative delves into themes of innocence, betrayal, and the intricate dynamics of human connections. more
Author
L.P. Hartley was an influential British novelist known for his unique narrative style and profound insights into human nature. His works, often set against historical backdrops, blend reality with fantasy, showcasing the inner world of characters. His notable novels include 'The Go-Between' and 'The House in the Woods'. more
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